YouTube has suspended access in Pakistan to Lazawal Ishq (Eternal Love), widely described as the first Urdu-language reality show of its kind, after the programme aired 50 episodes. While viewers in Pakistan can no longer watch full episodes on the platform, the show remains accessible in other countries.

The programme follows a reality television format similar to the British show Love Island and is based on the Turkish production Aşk Adasi. It features eight men and women from Pakistan living together in a villa in Istanbul and was originally planned to run for 100 episodes.

In a post shared on Instagram, the show’s producers said the programme might not be viewable in Pakistan “due to political reasons.” They advised Pakistani viewers to use virtual private networks (VPNs) to continue watching. Although full episodes are unavailable locally, selected clips from the show remain on its official YouTube channel.

Hosted by actor Ayesha Omar, Lazawal Ishq attracted significant attention online, with its first trailer receiving more than two million views.

The suspension came amid formal complaints submitted to the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra). A petition filed with the regulator sought a ban on the programme, alleging that it violated Pakistan’s religious and social values by depicting unmarried men and women living together.

Pemra confirmed that it had received a large number of complaints regarding Eternal Love but said it does not have jurisdiction over digital platforms. The regulator directed petitioners to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), which oversees online content. The PTA did not issue a response regarding the matter.

Despite its removal from YouTube in Pakistan, Lazawal Ishq continues to be available for viewers outside the country.